MotoGP Announces Return to Brazil with Goiania Grand Prix in 2026
Dorna has agreed to revive the Brazilian Grand Prix at Goiania, set for March 2026, marking the event’s first occurrence in 34 years. The project aims to re-establish MotoGP in Brazil with support from Brasil Motorsport, but significant upgrades are necessary for the track, and past failed attempts raise questions about feasibility.
The MotoGP organization, Dorna, has announced its return to Brazil for a Grand Prix at the Goiania International Racetrack Ayrton Senna, marking the first event of its kind there in 34 years, with a tentative date set for March 2026. The five-year agreement between Goias state officials and Dorna was confirmed recently, which aims to reconnect with the avid Brazilian motorcycle racing fanbase. Brasil Motorsport, the entity responsible for the successful Formula 1 Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos, is also collaborating on this initiative.
Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta expressed enthusiasm regarding the return, noting, “We have a good fanbase who we know are excited about this news, just as we’re eager to return to race for them again, and this new agreement also offers a fantastic opportunity to expand in a key market for the sport and our manufacturers.” Brazil has historically hosted MotoGP events from 1987 to 1989, though its prominent locale has faced challenges. Recent attempts to return, including a proposed race in Rio de Janeiro, fell through.
The revival of the Brazilian GP may be bolstered by local talent, particularly Diogo Moreira, who is making strides in Moto3 and could generate significant interest if he joins MotoGP by then. However, the Goiania circuit requires substantial upgrades to meet MotoGP safety standards, leading to skepticism regarding the feasibility of the event. The economic landscape in South America also poses uncertainties as the region grapples with political changes and instability, disrupting plans for upcoming races such as the Argentinian GP. Therefore, while the enthusiasm surrounding the Brazilian return is palpable, concerns remain about the logistical and financial preparedness of the event as well as the historical context of past disappointments in similar endeavors.
Historically, MotoGP has included Brazil in its racing calendar, with the last occurrence being in 1992. The Brazilian fanbase for motorcycle racing is significant and passionate, providing a promising market for MotoGP and its manufacturers. Despite this potential, recent economic instability and governance issues in the region have cast doubt on the viability of returning to Brazil. Previous attempts to establish a race in the country were unsuccessful, notably a planned event in Rio that was never realized. The Goiania circuit itself requires considerable upgrades to meet current MotoGP safety and facility standards, which also raises concerns. Brasil Motorsport, the organization behind the successful Formula 1 races, has partnered with Dorna to lend expertise and support to re-establish MotoGP in Brazil. The project aims to capitalize on emerging local talent and a growing interest in motorcycle racing across South America, driving efforts to bring exciting motorsport events back to the region.
In summary, the announcement of MotoGP’s return to Brazil is a promising development for racing enthusiasts, but it is accompanied by notable uncertainties. With the last race held 34 years ago, Dorna aims to re-engage a passionate fanbase while overcoming significant logistical hurdles. The need for extensive circuit upgrades, the historical difficulties of securing races in Brazil, and the current economic climate present challenges that must be navigated carefully to ensure the successful revival of the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Original Source: www.the-race.com
